WORK could begin within 12 months on a multi-million pound development at Bangor University’s School of Ocean Sciences.

The planned work would include the demolition of the school’s buildings at Westbury Mount and the erection of a new building, a delegation from the university told Menai Bridge Town Council.

Mike Goodwin, director of estates and facilities at the university, told members that the school retained “a firm commitment to remain in Menai Bridge,” and would invest around £6m in the new development.

He said the buildings at Westbury Mount were in “quite poor” condition, and did not make effective use of the site.

“The current building is not efficient,” he said.

“There is more usable space on the site than is currently being used.”

The new development would make more effective use of the site’s “footprint,” said Mr Goodwin.

However, plans were still at a “very early stage” and no formal planning application had yet been made, he added.

Technical officer Emyr Hughes said work was expected to begin around the New Year and would last 12 months.

The new building would be a similar height to the existing Westbury Mount building, said Mr Hughes.

Professor Colin Jago, of the School of Ocean Sciences, said the new building would accommodate staff currently based on Ynys Faelog, who would be further incorporated into the school.

However, he told councillors that Ynys Faelog would be retained by the school, as it was needed for launching small boats in the Menai Straits.

Cllr Harold Barton asked the delegation: “Where are you going to store the materials? In the car park?

“That will stop people coming to the town.”

Mr Hughes said developers were considering “off-site” construction as a result of the “restricted site,” whereby “flat pack” material would be brought to the site.

Asked by the council about parking provision, Mr Hughes said the university would promote alternative means of transport to the site.

Cllr Barton said the council welcomed news of the development.

“It’s marvellous that we have one of the best ocean science departments in the world,” he said.

“But as councillors we also want to look after the town.”

Mr Goodwin said the university would work with the town council as the project progressed.